WholeLifePets.com: Understanding The Signs of Dehydration in Dogs

Irwindale, CA: Shade and water are the life-savers from heat exhaustion and dehydration. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat – they cool themselves primarily by panting; and they lose a lot of moisture from their system as they do. A dog’s body is 90% water, and only a 10% loss of body fluid can cause dehydration.

While out and about with these four-legged companions, make sure to stop for water often. Overheating happens easier in hot, humid conditions since humidity inhibits evaporation and slows body cooling.

Know The Signs Of Dehydration

•Check The Gums – They should be pink and slippery-wet. If they are dull and sticky, the dog is dehydrated. A dog can’t cool herself when her mouth is dry.

•Capillary Refill Time – Press on the gums for a second and the spot will turn white. The gums should return to a normal pink color almost immediately on removingthe finger. If they don’t, then it’s likely the dog is dehydrated.

•Skin Elasticity – Pull the loose skin above the dog’s shoulder blades up as high as possible and let go. The skin should snap right back into place. If the skin takes a few seconds to snap back, then suspect dehydration.

Weakness, trembling legs and sunken eyes are signs of severe dehydration. At this point, the dehydration is severe enough to be an emergency. Get the dog to a veterinarian quickly.

What To Do About Dehydration?

•DO NOT let the dog drink his fill right away. This can cause vomiting and further loss of fluid. Let him drink a little, then pause for a minute or two, then let him drink more.

•If he doesn’t seem able to drink enough to regain proper hydration, get him to a veterinarian right away. Severe dehydration is life threatening. He will need subcutaneous fluids to prevent organ damage and should be watched carefully.

•Replace lost electrolytes with a little pedialyte or other electrolyte supplement. Avoid sugary drinks like Gatorade.

WholeLifePets.com is one of the best sources of quality products for pets online. The company ensures that all the products listed in the site and the ingredients used in them are carefully researched and free of any harmful effects. The environment impact of these products isalso considered before listing them on the website. WholeLiefePets.com deals with the most trusted and reputed manufacturers in the business and thus can ensure the highest quality products always.

“We offer easy shopping, fast shipping and service with a virtual smile. We are committed to making your experience at Whole Life Pets a positive one for you and your animal companion. We are here to serve you and will treat you with respect, honesty and integrity” says the company website.

About WholeLifePets.com

WholeLifePets.com is one of the largest sources of products and information for pet dogs and cats. They provide a whole range of pet products including vitamins, supplements, holistic remedies, flea and tick control medicines etc. that helps pets stay healthy.

Learn more on merrick flossies for dogs and WholeLifePets.com.

Visit: WholeLifePets.com

Contact:

16014 Adelante Street
Unit A
Irwindale, CA 91702
Ph: (800) 991-6221
Email: info@wholelifepets.com

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